recipe

Super Tasty Puff Pastry Eggplant Small Pizzas

Name: Super Tasty Puff Pastry Eggplant Small Pizzas
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 pcs.
Ingredients: puff pastry rolls, 2; eggplant, 1; tomato sauce, 160 ml (⅔ cup); Parmesan cheese, 45 g (½ cup); chopped basil, 2 tbsp; fresh mozzarella ball, 1; Olive oil for brushing,; salt,; fresh basil for serving,

Total time: 60 mins.

Difficulty: Low

Serves: 12 pcs.

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By Ojonugwa Lawrence

Eggplant Pizza relies on the familiar flavors of pizza with the rich, slightly smoky character of grilled eggplant, all wrapped in layers of puff pastry. This recipe starts with simple ingredients, just eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, basil, and puff pastry. Grilled eggplant slices become the star of the show, tucked between layers of pastry and topped with classic pizza ingredients.

Anyone who enjoys pizza, savory pastries, or vegetable-forward snacks will love this dish.

What Are Eggplant Pizza Bites?

Eggplant Pizza Bites are a creative mash-up of two beloved foods, which are pizza and savory pastries. Instead of using traditional pizza dough, this recipe sandwiches grilled eggplant between sheets of puff pastry, creating individual portions that are easy to serve and even easier to eat. Eggplant's ability to absorb flavors and develop a rich taste when grilled has made it a favorite in countless dishes.

Pro Tips for the Best Eggplant Pizza Bites

Look for eggplants with smooth skin and a firm texture. Softer eggplants can become mushy during cooking and may release too much moisture.
If your eggplant seems particularly juicy after grilling, lightly blot it with paper towels before assembling.
Fresh mozzarella contains moisture. Using moderate amounts helps prevent soggy pastry.
The glass indentation helps create a natural "pizza base" that keeps toppings neatly contained.
Fork holes allow steam to escape, helping the pastry bake more evenly and maintain its structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other toppings?

Thin slices of olives, roasted peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can all be added. Just avoid piling on too many toppings, as the small pizzas need room to bake evenly.

Do I have to grill the eggplant?

Grilling is recommended because it develops flavor and reduces moisture. However, you can roast the slices in the oven if a grill pan isn't available.

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes. Just allow it to thaw completely according to package instructions before rolling and assembling the pizzas.

How to Store Leftovers

Place the pizza bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, arrange them in a single layer whenever possible. For reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes to help restore the crispness of the pastry. These pizza bites can also be frozen for up to 1 month.

Ingredients

puff pastry rolls

eggplant

tomato sauce

160 ml (⅔ cup)

Parmesan cheese

45 g (½ cup)

chopped basil

2 tbsp

fresh mozzarella ball

Olive oil for brushing

salt

fresh basil for serving

How to Make Eggplant Pizza Bites

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Cut the eggplant into round slices of similar thickness, brush both sides lightly with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt.

Step 2

Grill the slices on both sides until tender and marked with golden grill lines.

Step 3

Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and chopped basil evenly across the pastry.

Step 4

Arrange the grilled eggplant slices over the parmesan and basil mixture, and lay the second sheet of puff pastry over the eggplant layer. Press around the edges to seal everything together securely.

Step 5

Cut the layered pastry into small squares. Using the bottom of a drinking glass, gently press the center of each square to create a shallow indentation. Use a fork to poke several holes in the center of each square.